Shopping during sales can be tricky, with discounts that may not always be what they seem. To help you navigate the world of deals and discounts, here are some tips to ensure you get the most value for your money.
When shopping, it’s essential to have a clear idea of what you want to buy to avoid falling into impulse purchases. Retailers often use tactics to encourage quick buying decisions, so it’s wise to do some research before making a purchase.
Before making a purchase, compare prices online to ensure you are getting a good deal. Check the manufacturer’s recommended retail price (RRP) as a reference point, but also look at other retailers to see the current market rate for the item you want to buy.
To track prices and ensure you are getting a good deal, use price tracker websites like CamelCamelCamel for Amazon products and PriceSpy for other retailers. These tools can help you determine if the price you are paying is fair or if you should wait for a better deal.
Consider leaving items in your online shopping cart for a few days to potentially receive discount offers from the retailer. You can also use websites like Honey to find voucher codes and cashback sites like TopCashback to get some money back on your purchases.
When shopping online, be cautious of social media shops offering suspiciously low prices or poor quality goods. Research the seller before making a purchase, and look for reviews or feedback from other customers to gauge the shop’s reputation.
If you encounter issues with your purchases, remember that consumer rights laws protect you. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 covers goods and services, ensuring that you can return items that are not of satisfactory quality, as described, or fit for purpose.
Under the Consumer Rights Act, you have specific timescales for returning faulty goods or services:
– Within 30 days: You are entitled to a full refund if the item is damaged, not as advertised, or not fit for purpose.
– Within six months: You can still potentially get a refund or replacement if issues arise.
– Over six months: You can request a full or partial refund, repairs, or replacements, but may need to provide evidence that the goods are faulty.
Additionally, the Consumer Contract Regulations 2013 give you the right to cancel online contracts within 14 days, providing a cooling-off period for online purchases. Remember to check the retailer’s return policy for in-store purchases.
In case of damaged or missing packages, the retailer is responsible for refunding you and ensuring the safe delivery of your items. Remember that your contract is with the retailer, not the delivery company, in such situations.
By being informed about your shopping rights and taking precautions when making purchases, you can shop confidently and ensure you get the best value for your money.